Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said on Monday that about 80 percent of the preparation work for the annual Rath Yatra festival in Puri is complete. The festival will take place on June 27.
A meeting was held in Puri, led by the Law Minister, to discuss the final arrangements for the famous chariot festival. Every year, lakhs of devotees come to Puri, a seaside town, to take part in the Rath Yatra.
After the meeting, Harichandan told the media that the remaining work will be finished before the festival day. He also said that with Lord Jagannath’s blessings and everyone’s cooperation, this year’s Rath Yatra will happen smoothly.
The administration of the Jagannath temple in Puri is managed by the state government’s law department.
Regarding COVID-19 safety, Harichandan said that neither the central nor state health departments have given any special instructions for the festival. But they will still follow all safety measures advised by health officials.
Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling, who was also present, said that 300 doctors will be available in Puri during the festival. A temporary burn unit and ICU have been set up in the city for pilgrims. In addition, 15 permanent ICU beds will be ready before the Rath Yatra.
The meeting also discussed important issues like accommodation for visitors, security, traffic control, cleanliness, power supply, and organizing the darshan (viewing) of the deities. They also planned to ensure that all rituals and ceremonies are done on time.
Several other ministers attended the meeting as well.
